• Well Pat just to give you some cheer if it turns out you do have lung cancer and at this stage you might not, surgery is not the only option available. Like you I need to carry water with me having had a salivary gland removed and radiotherapy to jaw and neck. I still do daily swallowing and neck excecises to keep the swallowing reflex good.  As far as I remember although you cannot eat food or have milk in tea or coffee prior to surgery with anaesthetic you can drink water and black tea coffee. Hope this helps allay spme of your concerns.
• Ed

Thank you. So nice to hear from someone with experience.  So many different options online. Fingers crossed it won't be necessary 

Hi there Patsy71 and thanks for the post

I am sorry to hear about your past cancer and that you are currently undergoing tests for another possible cancer. This is understandably a worrying time for you and I hope you know more about your situation soon.

I appreciate the concerns about not being able to drink whilst waiting for surgery. I would talk this through with your team so they can advise you on what you can and can't do. Sometimes it is possible to still be able to sip some water or to suck on small ice cubes, so do check this out with the hospital team.

You can also keep the lips and mouth moist by using lip balms and ensuring good oral care by gently brushing your teeth, gums and tongue. You may wish to use a mouthwash and regularly rinse your mouth with water.

I hope this is helpful. Do get back in touch if you would like to or if you prefer give us a call on 0808 800 4040, we're here weekdays 9-5.

Best wishes

Naomi